Making energy choices: Heat pumps, solar panels, electric cars

Smart technologies are rapidly reshaping the way that we power our homes and travel – but with so much buzz around heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicles, how do we separate genuine impact from marketing hype? This event offers a clear, accessible guide to the technologies at the heart of the UK’s energy transition. From how heat pumps really work to what you can expect from home solar, batteries and smart tariffs, this session will cut through confusion and explore the practicalities, costs and benefits of low-carbon living. Whether you’re curious about switching to an electric car, upgrading your heating system or simply understanding the future of UK energy, this event will help you to make informed choices. Ideal for adults and anyone interested in the realities of a cleaner, smarter energy future.

Speakers: Sandra Bucci, Operations Manager for Energy, Cambridgeshire County Council; Midsummer Energy; Prof Xavier Moya, Dept of Material Science and Metallurgy and CEO of Barcoal.

Professor Xavier Moya is leading change within the energy sector, in sustainable solid-state cooling and heating, at the University of Cambridge. Professor Moya work bridges fundamental materials physics with real-world climate technology innovation, translating to his spin-out company Barocal Ltd. Barocal develops environmentally friendly cooling and heating technologies based on solid refrigerants, and he has been recognised with numerous awards including the Emerging Talent Award and election as a Breakthrough Energy Fellow.

Sandra Bucci is an Operations Manager in the energy sector, specialising in commercial energy contracts and the practical realities of the UK’s transition to low-carbon technologies. With hands-on experience across electric vehicle charging, renewable supply, and smart-tariff integration, she focuses on helping organisations navigate energy choices that are both environmentally and financially sound. Sandra brings a practical, real-world perspective on what smart energy technologies can and can’t deliver today.

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